1. What is HVAC Unit Tonnage?

HVAC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system, measured in tons. One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour), which represents the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the HVAC tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Tons \) — Cooling capacity in tons
• \( BTU/h \) — British Thermal Units per hour

Explanation: This formula converts BTU/h cooling capacity to equivalent tons, which is the standard unit for sizing HVAC systems.

3. Importance of Tonnage Calculation

Details: Proper HVAC sizing is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and system longevity. Undersized units struggle to cool spaces, while oversized units short-cycle, reducing efficiency and humidity control.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h rating of your HVAC equipment. The calculator will convert it to tons. Common residential units range from 1.5 to 5 tons.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between tons and BTU/h?
A: One ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU/h. This standardization helps in comparing and sizing different HVAC systems.

Q2: How do I determine the right tonnage for my home?
A: Professional Manual J calculations consider square footage, insulation, windows, climate, and other factors for accurate sizing.

Q3: What are common residential HVAC tonnage sizes?
A: Typical sizes include 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, and 5 tons, with 2-3 tons being common for average-sized homes.

Q4: Can I use this for commercial systems?
A: Yes, the formula works for any scale, but commercial systems often use larger units measured in the same way.

Q5: Why is proper tonnage important?
A: Correct sizing ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, proper humidity control, and extends equipment lifespan.